Northern Foods Activity

Submitted By

• Susan Devins, Adult Educator, BHP Ekati Workplace Learning Program, Yellowknife
• Elke Heinemann, Adult Educator, BHP Ekati Workplace Learning Program, Yellowknife

Best Practices Supported

• Instruction
• Culture
• Learning materials

Curriculum Links

• ALBE English 110

How It Works

This activity encourages learners to discuss familiar topics and learn vocabulary. Through prompts and questions from the instructor, workers were able to write about their knowledge of traditional food. Visual aids helped workers articulate specific food names and ways of preparing food. The key literacy words and reading strategies were reinforced as learners used supplemental resources such as the NWT map, laminated food models from the Northern Food Kit (Check with your health centre or borrow it from the NWT Public Library), Ekati menu, newspaper article and Northern Food Group chart.

The Workplace Learning Program focuses on work content, personal interest and Aboriginal content. The program recognizes and supports traditional knowledge and lifestyle of its participants and strives to create a link to enhance literacy skills. The Northern Foods Activity began as a general discussion about traditional foods. Many workers hunt, trap, and fish on their two weeks away from work. Workers talked about their favourite foods, how they prepare food and places they hunt for caribou and other game. The discussion led to developing a formal reading and writing lesson using appropriate resources.